The cool breeze that accompanies the monsoon is often a cause of joy to many but not for all. Those with asthma and breathing related allergies face the risk of aggravating their condition with the decrease in the temperature and increase in the dampness in the air during the rainy season. Here are some precautions and measures you can follow so that you too can enjoy the rains despite asthma.
Take all measures to prevent dampened walls in your house. When moisture is trapped in the walls it’s not only bad for the building but also your health. It leads to mould build-up which can either worsen your asthma symptoms or could even trigger asthma or other respiratory issues even if you don’t have them. Clean up all the mould off your walls using a combination of bleach and water. Also, get a damp-proof course done for your house in order to make your walls anti-moisture and anti-moulds. Using a dehumidifier and air conditioner could also be helpful in controlling the atmospheric conditions at home.
Keep the doors of your kitchen, wash area and bathrooms closed to reduce the circulation of moisture in the atmosphere. Also, make sure that all the rooms have proper cross ventilation and are exposed to sunlight even if it is for some time.
As per Dr. Vandana Prabhu, Pulmonologist, HSR layout, Apollo Clinic, “Rainy season also increases the presence of pollen grains in the air. This can trigger asthma attacks since pollen grains prove to be allergens for those who already have breathing problems. Avoid having plants inside the house, especially in your bedroom. Try to stay indoors during the mornings when the presence of pollens in the air is at its peak.” Similarly, due to humidity, pollutants from vehicles also remain suspended in the air for longer than usual which can cause irritation. So don’t forget to wear a dust mask when outside your abode. Likewise, during the monsoons your exposure to dander or animal fur also manifolds as pets tend to stay indoors more in order to avoid getting wet. This triggers asthma in children more. Try to restrict your pet’s movement in the house to a particular area only.
Apart from these precautions taken during rainy season for asthma, don’t forget to take your asthma medications regularly. Keep yourself warm to avoid catching a cold or flu. Also, keep in mind the usual measures like using blinders and window shades instead of curtains and keeping your home dust and clutter free.
While these measures can help you in managing asthma in the rainy season, do visit our medical experts at Apollo Clinic for a better understanding or if you experience any breathing allergy or asthma symptoms. Find the nearest Apollo Clinic to you here: https://www.apolloclinic.com/clinic-locator